The effect of Er:YAG laser irradiation with different frequencies on surface decontamination of used healing abutments: a supplementary approach to sterilization

Reusing healing abutments is common practice among clinicians; however, ensuring complete surface decontamination is crucial to avoid further complications. This study aimed to evaluate the cleaning potential of Er: YAG laser at different frequencies, as an adjunctive step prior to autoclave sterilization. Forty contaminated healing abutments were divided into four groups. Positive control group included mechanical wiping and ultrasonic bath, Er: YAG laser (50 mJ/pulse, 100 µsec, water 30%, air 70%) at 20 Hz, 30 Hz, and 40 Hz with the powers of 1 W, 1.5 W, and 2 W respectively. Three unused healing abutments were used as the negative control group. Samples were stained with phloxine B and then photographed using a light microscope. The proportion of stained and contaminated areas on each healing abutment was then quantified using ImageJ. Statistical analysis showed significant differences in the amount of remaining debris among the groups (P < 0.05). The group treated with the Er: YAG laser at 40 Hz demonstrated the most effective decontamination, with the least residual debris observed across all HA surfaces. Higher laser frequencies correlated with reduced contamination, particularly in the body and top areas of the HAs. The Er: YAG laser, particularly at 50 mJ/pulse and 40 Hz, proved to be an effective method for decontaminating used HAs. This laser treatment may offer a reliable protocol for reusing HAs, enhancing the safety and success of implant therapy.